The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Carlsbad Caverns, NM

459 Reviews

Campers heading to Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico can choose from several camping spots within a short drive of the underground formations. Sunset Reef Campground sits just four miles from the caverns, putting you close to the park entrance. The campground has good shade and bigger sites that work well if you're staying for more than a few days with family. About six miles from the caverns, Chosa Campground has flat ground that's good for both tents and RVs. Many campers use these spots as a base for day trips to the Rio Grande and Sangre de Cristo Mountains, where hiking trails and fishing spots are common. You can also drive to White Sands to see its unusual landscape. Weather around Carlsbad changes throughout the year - spring and fall have the best temperatures for camping. Summer gets really hot, while winter brings cooler days that make hiking and cave tours more comfortable. It's always smart to look up any closures or rules before you head out. The area's camping options put you close to some of New Mexico's most interesting natural places.

Map showing campgrounds near Carlsbad Caverns, New MexicoExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico (38)

    1. Chosa Campground

    55 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Only 10 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP and about 25 minutes from Guadeloupe Mountains NP!

    The area is a large fenced in gravel lot. Plenty of spots for trailers/RVs/and any other campers."

    "It's a large, level, gravel parking lot a quarter mile off of Hwy 62/180 8 miles north of the Texas border in New Mexico."

    2. Sunset Reef Campground

    41 Reviews
    Carlsbad Caverns, NM
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Nice camping spot only about 5 miles from Carlsbad Caverns. The sites are nice and the vault toilet was very clean. I camped here in February and there was plenty of room. I got here around 5:30 PM."

    "Only 20 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP and about 30 minutes from Carlsbad NM! Slaughter canyon trail is 20 minutes down the same road the campsite is on. This is a great spot off the highway."

    3. Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping

    33 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    5 miles
    Website

    "Impeccable cell service, lots of space with any neighbors far away, and location 20 minutes away from Carlsbad Caverns can't be beat. No sun or wind protection though!"

    "About 7 miles away from Carlsbad Caverns. A half dozen spots right at the entrance. It was empty so we stayed near the front with a small rock fire pit."

    4. Carlsbad BLM Land Dispersed

    23 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Only 5 minutes from Carlsbad caverns, this dispersed OHV trail is accessible to anyone with a vehicle that can make it over potholes and speed bumps."

    "I stayed here because it was 15 minutes from Carlsbad cavern, and it did not disappoint. It was a really rough road past the first three spots, but my 2wd van made it."

    5. Whites City RV Park

    23 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 361-3665

    $20 - $45 / night

    "Overall not too bad of a campground. 15 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns National Park and less than 40 minutes from Guadalupe Mountains National Park."

    "Nothing special other than is 7 miles from Carlsbad Caverns. Clean facilities, including Grocery Store, laundromat, post office. It’s a dry area so remember to bring your alcohol."

    6. Carlsbad RV Park & Campground

    35 Reviews
    Carlsbad, NM
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 885-6333

    "Very convenient to Carlsbad Caverns National Park and to Carlsbad, New Mexico. Nice indoorheated pool and a family-friendly environment. Treats for your dog and several dog parks fort off leash fun."

    "It’s a little rough around the edges but they are remodeling the bathrooms, and the laundry room is great. The employees are as nice as can be!"

    7. Parks Ranch Campground

    7 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 525-4300

    "Only 20 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP and about 35 minutes from Guadeloupe Mountains NP!

    The area is a large gravel lot with some brush and scubs scattered about."

    "Stayed here while seeing the Carlsbad caverns. Great free spot close to whites city with laundry and showers as well as the national park."

    8. Dark Canyon Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    10 miles
    Website

    "Only 30 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP and about 20 minutes from Carlsbad NM! This is a great spot off the highway with basically no noise from cars."

    "Great location when checking out Carlsbad Caverns. Close to the road."

    9. Carlsbad Caverns Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 234-5972

    "Only 20 minutes from Carlsbad Caverns NP! This is area is about 2.5 miles off the highway. Only about .7 miles on a pretty level gravel road with some small ruts here and there."

    "High clearance for the upper levels of the roadway but several vans could stay below close to the entrance.  Quiet nights rest with occasional truck driving by on the roadway below"

    10. Rattlesnake Canyon - Backcountry Camping — Carlsbad Caverns National Park

    5 Reviews
    Whites City, NM
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (575) 785-2232

    "While Carlsbad Caverns generally serves a one-day visitor, there is much more to see as the sun goes down."

    "Rattlesnake canyon- backcountry camping close to Carlsbad caverns- wayyy cooler than the KOA in town or the other camping options I've explored."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 38 campgrounds

Recent Camping Photos near Carlsbad Caverns, NM

83 Photos of 38 Carlsbad Caverns Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Carlsbad Caverns, NM

459 Reviews of 38 Carlsbad Caverns Campgrounds

Guide to Carlsbad Caverns

Camping near Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a free spot or a more established site, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park: The main attraction, the caverns, are just a short drive from many campgrounds. Visitors rave about the breathtaking formations and the guided tours. One camper mentioned, “The proximity to both Guadalupe Mountains NP and Carlsbad Caverns NP are unbeatable” at Sunset Reef Campground.
  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. A reviewer at Pine Springs Campground noted, “Great access to trails - we woke up and immediately did Guadalupe trail!”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping shared, “I awoke to cows near my tent. Unphased by me doing their own thing.”

What campers like:

  • Free Camping Options: Many campers appreciate the free sites available. A review for Chosa Campground stated, “It’s just a huge free dirt lot to camp in. Very close to Carlsbad caverns and Guadalupe National parks.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often mention the peacefulness of the area. One visitor at Sunset Reef Campground said, “Just a mile from the road but perfectly quiet.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer plenty of space. A review for Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping noted, “Really nice place to stop. Impeccable cell service, lots of space with any neighbors far away.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds lack basic facilities. A camper at Chosa Campground pointed out, “NO drinking water, NO electric hookups, NO toilets.”
  • Weather Conditions: Be prepared for extreme weather. One reviewer at Mile 10 - Dispersed Camping warned, “I was caught in a two-day dust storm with 70mph winds.”
  • Busy on Weekends: Popular sites can fill up quickly. A visitor at Carlsbad KOA mentioned, “Sites fill up on the weekends.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Established Campgrounds: For families, sites like Carlsbad RV Park & Campground offer more amenities. A reviewer said, “Staff does a good job with upkeep and the bathrooms seem new, they are really nice.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. One camper at Brantley Lake State Park Campground enjoyed biking to the lake for a swim.
  • Bring Entertainment: Since some sites are remote, having games or books can help keep kids entertained. A camper at Whites City RV Park mentioned, “Two laundry rooms, so got some washing done after being dry camping for five days.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dog Canyon Campground noted, “The ‘RV’ sites are just a gravel parking lot.”
  • Be Ready for Dry Camping: Many campgrounds don’t have hookups. A camper at Pine Springs Campground advised, “No generator use either so be prepared to dry camp.”
  • Book in Advance: If you want a specific site, it’s best to reserve ahead. A visitor at Carlsbad KOA mentioned, “Overall a good campsite, some minor drawbacks.”

Camping near Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico, offers a mix of adventure and tranquility, making it a great spot for all types of campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Carlsbad Caverns, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, Carlsbad Caverns, NM offers a wide range of camping options, with 38 campgrounds and RV parks near Carlsbad Caverns, NM and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Carlsbad Caverns, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carlsbad Caverns, NM is Chosa Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 55 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carlsbad Caverns, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Carlsbad Caverns, NM.

What parks are near Carlsbad Caverns, NM?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 parks near Carlsbad Caverns, NM that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

Keep Exploring